Antiques

Lighting fixtures have been in existence for years. They were a symbol of royalty and a distinct social class during the Roman era. The moguls used to adorn their courts with invaluable lighting fixtures, in order to impress people with their show of wealth. Lighting fixtures, then, used candles and kerosene, unlike those available today, as the light bulb was not invented until 1830.

Some of the lighting fixtures that were used by the kings, rich traders and noblemen have been passed down through generations as antiques. Antique lighting fixtures are invaluable pieces of craftsmanship. They are not only the evidence of excellent craftsmanship but also witnesses of history and the rich culture of the past. They speak volumes for the owner?s taste and choice. When purchasing an antique lighting fixture, it is important to check whether the piece is genuine. The years and the hands it has passed through add value to it.

These lighting fixtures are sometimes available in antique shops and are priced highly. A few of them, like Smoke and Bells, made in 1870, have created an impact on our society. The upper shade of the light fixture is a smoke bell, intended to diffuse smoke that might have drifted from gas flames. Tasso Sconce a single-light fixture has an old brass finish, with a Beaux Arts shade. Moose Antlers was made in 1850. It is a two-tier fixture has eight lights. It is a five feet wide masterpiece.

The demand for antique lighting fixtures has increased considerably. There are people who prefer the antique look in their homes to a more modern techno-savvy look. These people invest in antique lighting fixtures. There are many companies that offer their services not only to sell antique light fixtures but also purchase and restore them. It is advisable to verify the credentials of the company before making any purchases.

You can decorate your whole house with antique lighting. There are antique lighting fixtures and there are antique lamps that provide great lighting for both ambiance and reading or tasks. Antique lighting in your home or office adds such touch of class and interest to what could otherwise be very ordinary. Antique lighting is almost architectural in nature and design and when incorporated in the ceiling design of some rooms, antique lighting makes quite a statement. The use of antique lighting fixtures can be such fun too.

When you plan to redecorate, remodel or if you are starting from scratch with building designs, consider your lighting carefully. It is in the planning stages that you will most easily be able to bring antique lighting into the scheme of things. When you decide if you want overhead or wall sconces, you can begin your search for the perfect antique lighting. There are stores that are exclusively antique or “vintage” lighting stores where you will find all sorts of antique lighting fixtures and lamps. You will be able to choose from antique lanterns that have been converted in to modern lighting in terms of wiring, but still retain their antique appearance. The same is true with antique hanging light fixtures that were once illuminated by candle flames or gas flames, but that now hold light bulbs.

Much of the charm of antique lighting fixtures and lamps is due to the different glass globes and shades. These are what define the light, in addition to the metal framing. Just because you use antique lighting in your home or office does not mean you are limited to antique furniture or other decor. In fact, the mixture of antique lighting with modern plush or leather or even metal furniture is a great look.

Besides the antique or “vintage” lighting stores, some of the other sources for your antique lighting are estate auctions, antiques stores, salvage companies and the internet, to name a few. The very popular internet auctions list antiques and antique lighting as categories for you to search or browse through to find just the right antique lighting item that you are looking for or may not even know you are looking for and you can bid on it and hopefully, “win” it with you as highest bidder and you will be the proud new owner of a genuine article of antique lighting. If you have a difficult time finding authentic original antique lighting for your project, you might also consider purchasing a reproduction of antique lighting. Only you will know for sure that it is a reproduction….